Hajj flights for the year 2024 are set to commence on May 9 and will continue until June 9, according to an announcement made by a spokesperson from the religious ministry on Friday.
In 2023, the Saudi government reinstated Pakistan’s Hajj quota to its pre-pandemic level of 179,210 pilgrims and removed the age restriction of 65 years. Last year, over 81,000 pilgrims participated in Hajj through the government’s program, while others opted for private tour operators.
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For Hajj 2024, the Pakistani government conducted a lottery in December 2023, selecting over 63,000 applicants to perform the pilgrimage under the government’s arrangement.
The spokesperson emphasized the necessity for all pilgrims to possess smartphones, as they will utilize mobile applications to assist them during their sacred journey.
Additionally, each pilgrim will receive a complimentary mobile SIM card from a Saudi provider, equipped with 180 minutes of international calling time.
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The next round of Hajj training, led by chief master trainer Ahmed Nadeem Khan, is scheduled to start on April 15. This session will include 40 Hajj trainers who will offer guidance on new procedures and aspects related to Hajj at 122 venues throughout Pakistan.
The spokesperson also mentioned that the obligatory vaccination for pilgrims will begin ten days prior to their departure. Pilgrims will also receive a set of items including a suitcase, a carry-on bag, a shoe bag, an Ihram belt, and a green scarf adorned with the Pakistani flag.